It's hard to believe that just over a week ago, I swallowed the lump in my throat and attempted the History Overview exam with the Royal Conservatory! We've been on a little anniversary getaway (celebrating 7 years), which explains my delay in relaying to you how things went with said exam....I know, I know....you've been anxiously waiting to hear how it went! lol
When I arrived at the examination centre, I was the only one taking the exam that day. I was actually relieved not to be disturbed by the rustling of other exam-takers, and enjoyed 2 1/2 hours of mental solitude (with the exception of Margaret, the moderator). Physically, this exam was exhausting. Not to mention the mental stretching, my often carpal-tunnel afflicted arm underwent a definite flare-up while I was writing. Seriously, in this technologically advanced age, can they not provide us with computer screens so we can type our 3 essays, instead of insisting that we leave the exam centre and go straight to the chiropractor!? :) And the not drinking any water after noon didn't work so well either for 'this little bladder mine.' And my moderator was drinking water the whole time....how did she do it?
I'm pleased that the exam overall was easier than I expected- that's a good sign, right?! But like with any exam, after I left the room I checked my book on a couple of things I hadn't been sure about (key signatures, mostly- those pesky things!!).
Now I get to imbibe myself in summer and await the 6 weeks to see my mark...and the 2 months to see the actual exam. Studying in every spare moment had become such a way of life that I keep having to remind myself that I don't have to study! I am so grateful for my husband, who on several occasions arranged childcare so I could have hours...even days of uninterrupted study. It made all the difference in the world in how much history I was able to soak in.
Even more than the mark is the satisfaction of all that I learned. I now look for music history links everywhere I go, and judge every historical figure based on which composer(s) lived during his/her lifetime. My husband tells me I'm obsessed. Maybe I am....but I learned so much.
History 2? A few months ago it was "no, never!" Now....bring it on!! .....But not until the fall. :)
Posted by Leah@Piano Playground
